Balloons. Joyous people. Energetic Cheerleaders. Colors waving. Smiling teachers. Pure pride.

All this, and much more was represented at McKinley High School’s 150th welcome back assembly. Everyone, from students to staff got up on their feet dancing to the newest hottest songs. Big, black and gold balloons swayed back and forth as people sang the alma mater.  Pride and joy filled the whole gym. A flash mob was held on the floor. Students crazily danced around with their classmates. You could tell the spirit was passed on from generation to generation; it was that genuine.

 Freshmen Precious Linmark shared her thoughts.

“There’s a lot of pride, and it’s really like wow, it’s exciting,” Linmark  said.

 There were also many students wearing special designed McKinley shirts, purchased at the tiger locker. Along with the tiger locker talk, Principal Okamura gave a welcoming speech about the brand new school year. He explained how it was a very special year. With the 150th anniversary, new things were expected to happen. It was the start of something to remember.

Soon after, the McKinley varsity cheer squad ran through an upbeat routine.

“The cheerleaders are very energetic, not just them, but everyone,” Linmark said.

About one fourth of the assembly were “new born tigers” or  freshmen.

I feel welcomed, I feel the spirit, it’s a big deal,” Linmark said.

And with that, the assembly was over, but the spirit  was still there.